With a score of four stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests the Skoda Octavia’s safety levels are fairly high. Many newer hatchbacks like the Ford Focus and Peugeot 308 have been awarded the maximum five stars, however. Driver, passenger and side airbags are standard, while curtain bags are optional (standard on L&K models) as are active headrests. All models get central locking and an immobiliser plus an alarm is standard on Ambiente (later updated to SE) or Elegance trim levels otherwise it’s an option.

This is one of the Octavia’s many strengths. Considering its price tag, the Skoda offers superb space and practicality for the money. The boot is easy to access thanks to a large tailgate and the load area offers 560 litres of space – that’s even more than the cavernous Ford Mondeo. There’s plenty of storage all round and up front there are large door bins, two central cupholders and a cubby on the top of the dash.

The rear seats split and fold down to boost overall carrying capacity to 1,350 litres.